Word On WasteExpo, The

Alice P. Jacobsohn | Jun 01, 2001

There were no signs of an anemic economy at this year's WasteExpo held the first week of April. In fact, the nation's largest showcase of waste systems and technology was larger than ever, with 427 companies filling 242,000 square feet in Chicago's McCormick Place South — all awaiting the arrival of 11,500 visitors.

The show floor grew by 10 percent, attendance was up by 4 percent and international attendance was up by 6 percent since 2000, according to Show Director Rita Ugianskis-Fishman of Intertec Exhibitions, Stamford, Conn. “This represents a 13 percent growth in attendance in the past two years,” Ugianskis says. “Keep in mind that attendance was steadily declining for the previous 5 years — likely due to the effects of consolidation.”

WasteExpo's marketing efforts have been more aggressive in the past two years, as well, Ugianskis adds. “From the exhibition to the educational sessions, we are creating a show with a broader appeal to reach key segments such as waste generators and public sector professionals.”

“I am very pleased with the overall results of WasteExpo 2001,” Ugianskis continues. “I think this is a good indication of the strength of the show and the future of this industry.”

Among the show highlights were:

James A. Baker III gave the keynote address, sponsored by McNeilus Companies Inc., Dodge Center, Minn., to a packed audience. His message: Under difficult and continuously changing circumstances, you must be strong and face the problems head on.

Participants debated whether recycling is a worthwhile endeavor at “The Great Debate: Is Recycling Garbage?”

WasteExpo's Welcome Reception, sponsored by WasteClick.com, featured a return to the roaring '20s, complete with flappers, bootleggers, gangsters and molls to entertain the attendees.

The educational seminars, for the first time, included sessions organized by the EIA and WasteExpo staff, the Solid Waste Association of North America (SWANA), and Yale University Solid Waste Policy Program faculty. Among the topics featured were website development, safety and liability issues, recycling, garbage collection and best management practices on working with business partners.

In total, these events made the show as great as it was, Ugianskis says. “I greatly appreciate everyone who supported this event — our partners, sponsors, vendors and, most importantly, our attendee and exhibitor customers.”

Following are photographs from the various activities.

Be a part of WasteExpo 2002, May 20-23, in Las Vegas. Contact Rita Ugianskis-Fishman at (203) 358-3705. Fax: (203) 358-5816. Website:www.wasteexposhow.com.

Accolades And Awards

Each year during WasteExpo, the Washington, D.C.-based Environmental Industry Associations (EIA) and its sub-associations, the National Solid Wastes Management Association (NSWMA) and Waste Equipment Technology Association (WASTEC), honor people who have contributed to the industry, association and community. Here are this year's winners (pictured on right):

EIA Hall of Fame Inductees

Drivers are the lifeblood of the waste industry. They navigate heavy trucks through narrow streets in bad and good weather conditions. In many cases, drivers also are responsible for performing other duties, such as training drivers and maintaining safe operations. This year's EIA Drivers of the Year program, sponsored by Heil Environmental Industries Inc., Chattanooga, Tenn., recognized refuse truck drivers with exceptional safety and customer service records. The winners are (pictured on right):